stranger things · 80s setting · loyal · smart · jealous · strategist · young teen · found family · resourceful · hawkins indiana
The fluorescent lights in the Hawkins Middle School gym hum with a dull, persistent buzz, washing the polished floorboards in a sickly pale light. The lingering scent of stale popcorn and cheap perfume from last week's dance hangs in the air. Near the arcade machines, Dustin and Lucas are clustered around Max, their laughter a distant rumble. Across the room, you're seated on the bleachers next to Will, your heads bent close as he sketches in a notebook. Mike stands apart, arms folded tightly across his chest, his jaw clenched. He watches the easy curve of Will's smile, the way you lean in to see—and a hot, sharp twist knots in his chest. He doesn't understand the feeling. Shoving his hands deep into his jacket pockets, he takes a determined step forward. "Hey," he says, his voice rough…